Category Archives: Plumbing Advice

Plumbing Upgrades For An Aging Population

February 17, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Time is one factor that no one can control. As time passes, things continue to age. The circle of life is no mystery to any of us. The task of coping with the changes that are to come can be troublesome. One area of the home where the most injuries occur in older individuals is the bathroom. To protect yourself, parent, or loved one from injuring themselves in this common area of the home, there are a few upgrades that can be done.

Some upgrades you can do on your own, while other upgrades will require the assistance of a professional. The do-it-yourself upgrades are generally the first things that are attempted, before outside assistance is called in. The upgrades that can be done without any professional assistance include: changing door knobs, installing grip bars, and purchasing a nonslip bath mat for the tub.

DIY Plumbing Upgrades

Door knobs may need to be replaced, if they are hard to grasp. It is important to remember that as you age, you may not have the same amount of strength you once had when you were a young chap. It is important that the knobs in your residence adapt to your capabilities. If a knob is too hard to turn, then it needs to be replaced.

Grip bars can be installed to allow an easy transition from a sitting position to a stance. The nonslip liner for the bath is a given. If your legs get wobbly from standing in a place for too long, adding water into the picture can make the task dangerous. Along with an anti-slip mat a waterproof chair or bench can greatly improve safety. Most injuries occur in the shower, because wet slippery surfaces can put people with mobility issues in danger.

When To Call In A Professional

Simple alterations can be made to a bathroom to make it safer for elderly people. Small changes and additions can make tasks less daunting. However, if any major alterations need to be made to the bathroom or kitchen, these DC plumbing upgrades should be completed by a professional. Raising or replacing a sink, installing slip resistant flooring, and installing a special toilet all require professional intervention.

Raising Or Replacing A Sink

Elderly individuals that have issues bending over may elect to have their sink raised to make the task easier. A professional should be called in to complete this service, to ensure that it is done correctly. Wheelchair bound individuals may also need to have their sinks lowered to accommodate their needs. Homes are not readily equipped or sold with these modifications, so they will need to be done at some point by a professional servicer who offers DC plumbing services.

Installing Slip Resistant Flooring

Slippery surfaces are a danger zone for elderly people. Not only is an elderly’s person’s mobility jeopardized, but if they were to fall, it could have detrimental effects. If the tile in your bathroom is glossy or slippery when wet, to avoid accidents, have it replaced.

Installing A Special Toilet

The shower and the toilet are two of the most important parts of a lavatory. If an elderly person has a problem getting up from the toilet, or sitting on it, a special toilet can be installed. These special devices can be adjusted to a height to eliminate the danger of going to the bathroom. No one wants to hear that a loved one has gone to the bathroom and is unable to vacate the facility, or has been injured attempting to do so.

When To Call An Emergency Plumbing Service

February 15, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

In many ways, a building is constructed in the same manner as the human body. The frame of the home represents the skeletal system in the body, the nervous system is the electrical system, and plumbing is the circulatory system. To live, all systems must work in unison; the same can be said about a building or home. If one system is not functioning properly, it can disrupt the entire flow of a building.

The circulatory system is a vital system in the body. It allows blood to flow freely and circulate in and out of the heart. Plumbing does the same thing within a building. Various pipes are built alongside the walls of a home, enabling water to be delivered to specific areas. If anything is clogged, in either system the outcome can be detrimental.

When Should You Seek Help?

When it comes to your body, most people know the obvious things to look for, prior to seeking help. Your home is a different story. You may think that a small problem will stay that way, if you do not do anything to make it worse. Saying this is just like saying that if your leg consistently feels numb you should just lay down for the rest of your life and stop walking. You use your home to adhere to your needs, and there is no way that you can stop using certain things inside of it, to eliminate a small problem from getting bigger.

DC emergency plumbing services should be called to your residence immediately, if your pipes have burst, your toilet is clogged, or there is gas leaking from the home. These three types of emergencies can escalate quickly if they are not dealt with accordingly. Knowing what to do if or when these situations occur can save you a lot of money on unnecessary repairs.

What To Do If Your Water Pipes Burst

Water pipes burst for various reasons, despite the cause of the issue; you need to know what to do when it arises. The first thing that happens when pipes within a residence burst is water begins to flood the residence. Water may come from ground floors or even seep in from under the walls. Prior to calling an emergency plumber, make sure that the main water valve that supplies the home is turned off.

Clogged Toilets Can Turn Into A Big Mess

Most people would not consider calling an emergency plumber over a clogged toilet. Overtime the issue can get worse if nothing is done about it. The best thing to do when you notice the toilet is not flushing is to contact an emergency plumber immediately. Toilet clogs can get messy and can become a major headache if they are left as is.

Do You Smell Something Funny?

The smell of gas in a home is enough to frighten anyone. After the gas company, has been informed of the problem you should then contact a plumber. Plumbers not only work on water pipes, they also assist with heating and furnaces. Carbon monoxide gases are not anything to play with; they are deadly if not taken care of promptly.

Space Saver Ideas For Small Bathroom Remodels

February 10, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Bathrooms are normally the toughest and most expensive room to remodel in your home. The plumbing lines that have been set to signify where the toilet, sink, and tub should be set are usually in a fixed location. If the footprint of the room is small, there may not be a lot of room to work with when considering a remodel.

There is always the option of taking out a wall to expand the space. If you are tight on cash and do not the money to do a complete remodel, there are some simple things that can be done to make the room appear larger. Five space saving ideas to consider when doing DC bathroom remodeling are to change out the vanity, eliminate shower curtains, clear out the clutter, paint the walls, and add extra light.

Change Out The Vanity

If your small sized bathroom contains a vanity, consider changing it out. The vanity can be swapped for a pedestal style sink or a console that possesses a few shelves. Removing the vanity may eliminate the room’s storage potential, but it will make the room appear spacious.

Eliminate Shower Curtains

Shower curtains can make a small bathroom appear even smaller. If the curtain is made of fabric or possess a pattern, the bathroom will have a closed in or dark appearance. To give the bathroom a spacious look, install glass sliding doors. The doors are available in varying styles, and give the room a lighter appearance.

Clear Out Clutter

Cluttered rooms give an area a smaller appearance, even if the area is large. Baskets and shelves can be used to organize the area. Consider installing floating or wall-mounted cabinets. Place the shelves at a decent height, so you can store your bathroom essentials, but low enough for you to be able to grab something if it is needed.

Paint The Walls

Dark colors make rooms appear closed in, while lighter colors open them up. If your bathroom does not get a decent amount of natural light, lighter or neutral colors should be used to brighten up the space. The right paint color can transform the bathroom in your home. A light and lively color will give the room depth, making it appear larger than its square footage.

Add Extra Light

A common reason why people opt to remodel their bathrooms is due to trends. While a bathroom that possesses pattern tiles all over the walls may have been a great look in the seventies, it is not a good look now. Changing out the light fixtures in the room can provide additional lighting that the bathroom lacked previously. Think about adding sconces along the left and right sides of the mirror, or doing wall-mounted string lines.

Some bathroom remodels can be DIY, while other remodeling ideas may require professional intervention. Before removing the fixtures in the room, such as the sink, toilet, or tub, reach out to a professional to avoid damaging anything. Remodeling a room takes skill; small bathroom remodels can be just as tedious as their larger counterparts.

Five Tips To Make Your Plumbing Renovation Project Run Smoothly

February 8, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Renovating your home can be exciting, but it also requires a lot of work. If you plan on doing the work yourself, or hiring an experienced contractor to perform the remodel for you, there is plenty that needs to be completed. When planning your renovation, it is vital to consider the plumbing renovations that will need to be done.

There are five things that you can do to make the renovation go smoothly. You should make it a point to hire a plumber at the onset of your project, make realistic location choices, be flexible with your design, leave an ample amount of time to get the project completed, and employ licensed professionals. These five things may sound simple enough, but they are overlooked often.

Hire A Plumber At The Onset Of Your Project

There is no telling what you will run into when renovating your kitchen or bathroom. You should not wait until after you have begun demolition to employ a contractor. A licensed plumbing professional can guide you through performing DC plumbing renovations, without endangering the plumbing system in your home. They can help you determine what needs to be replaced, allowing you to properly plan for their services in your renovation budget.

Make Realistic Location Choices

In most homes, plumbing lines are already set where they need to be. If you want to have a line moved so a fixture can be placed in a different spot, make sure your expectations are realistic. Pipes can always be moved to accommodate your location choice, but make sure that you are not making silly requests. Sometimes untrained people expect professionals to be able to perform tasks that are unrealistic.

Be Flexible With Your Design

You have a vision of what you want your project to look like once it’s completed, but sometimes it is impossible to get everything that you want. Whenever plumbing renovations are involved, you must be flexible with your design choices. Being flexible will allow your plumber to meet your expectations without compromising the plumbing system in the process.

Leave An Ample Amount Of Time To Get The Project Completed

It takes time to renovate a home’s plumbing system. Even highly skilled plumbers will still need an ample amount of time to be able to get your renovations done correctly and safely. In some cases, permits may be required to move piping systems, which can take a little bit of time to obtain. You should include waiting times for permits into your renovation schedule.

Employ Licensed Professionals

Licensure is important when it comes to plumbing renovations. Although it seems unimportant to hire a plumber who is licensed to fix a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, larger projects require a licensed professional. Licensed professionals will not only have the proper experience to complete your job, but they will also carry insurance if something were to happen while they are completing your renovation project.

Plumbing renovations are a great way to design your home to adhere to your personal preferences. Keeping the previous five tips in mind, when planning your next renovation, will ensure that it is done right. Remember that renovations take time, planning, and money to be done properly.

Three Reasons To Hire Sewer Services

February 7, 2017DC Plumber, DIY Plumbing, How To, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

The importance of maintaining a functional plumbing system is often overlooked by homeowners. If the plumbing system in a building is properly maintained, an expert will rarely have to be called in to render services. Overtime, a neglected system can cause problems that will get worse as time proceeds. Proper maintenance can stop problems from occurring, but most people do not understand how important their sewage systems are until it’s too late.

The pipelines that are used in sewage systems are delicate. If the system is not adequately maintained, it can cause a company offering sewer services in DC to have to intervene to rectify the issue. There are three reasons to consider employing a professional if you begin to experience sewage issues. A professional service can properly diagnose the sewage problem, clean out blocked pipes, and help eliminate further damage to the piping system.

Properly Diagnose The Sewage Problem

Clogs within the sewage system occur when something is blocking the one of the pipelines. If a clog is not fixed promptly, this could cause the pipes that are being blocked to crack or burst under pressure. Pipes that are cracked or burst will need to be rectified by a professional. They will identify the cause of the issue and resolve it.

Clean Out Blocked Pipes

Clogged pipes happen for a variety of different reasons. The most common reasons why they occur is because of objects being flushed down the toilet that should be disposed of by a different means. Baby diapers, tissue rolls, and tampons are commonly flushed down the toilet, instead of being disposed of properly. If these items are flushed down the commode, they can cause massive problems.

It is vital that only things that are intended to be flushed down the toilet are disposed of in this matter. In most cases, only toilet paper should be put into a toilet, because it will disintegrate over time. Once an item has obstructed the flow of water, it can cause any water that is flushed into the pipes to come back up, because it has no way to pass through.

Eliminate Further Damage To The Piping System

If a clogged pipe or sewage leak is not fixed immediately, the issue can spread throughout the property. The sewage can spew over to the front lawn of your residence, basement, or any area that water is being fed to. Homeowners that attempt to fix the problem on their own, without any plumbing experience can cause further damage to their piping system.

Trained sewage professionals know what to do to ensure that further damage does not occur. These professionals will identify the cause, use their specialized equipment to fix the issue, and help eliminate any further damage to the piping system. They understand how the system runs and operates, making the task of fixing the issue seamless.

As mentioned before, the sewage system in a dwelling is complex and delicate. Maintaining the system and getting it properly fixed if anything goes wrong helps ensure the safety of your household. Raw sewage has been linked to adverse health complications. It is important to get any sewage related issues fixed properly to avoid further damage to your dwelling and your health.

Three Common Plumbing Repairs In The Home

February 6, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Owning a home can be a joyous experience, but being a homeowner also comes with its headaches. As a homeowner is it your responsibility to fix any problems that could arise in the dwelling. A common repair issue that occurs in a residence comes in the form of plumbing issues. Some of the issues can be rectified on your own, but others will require intervention from a plumbing professional.

If the problem occurs in an inaccessible area, or will take a lot of time to fix, DC plumbing repairs should be done by a reputable company. DIY projects have gained a lot of popularity, but you cannot fix something yourself if you do not have a clue what you are doing. There always comes a point with DIY tasks where your scope of practice does not cover what needs to be done. This is when professionals will need to be called in.

Leave It To The Professionals

The layout of the piping system in your home can be difficult to decipher. For many homeowners, the thought of completing repairs on their own can be daunting. A professional that is employed in this line of work, understands how the piping system in your home operates. If there is an issue, they can point out its exact cause without having to guess what the problem could be.

A basic plumbing system consists of a supply side and a drain side. Water is fed into the home through the supply side and it exits the residence through the drain side. Between the supply and drain side, there are networks of pipes that supply various areas of the home. It is within these networks that the most common plumbing repair issues occur. Leaks, clogs, and fixture repairs are the most common household plumbing problems.

Leaks

Leaks occurring within a home can be visible or invisible. They may create a pool of water around a supply source, such as the kitchen or bathroom sink, or the tub. Leaks can also be spotted on the walls, causing a stain to appear in the area. After the source of the leak has been identified, the plumber can then begin repairing the issue.

Clogged Drains

There are a lot of products that can be purchased from local retailers to help unclog drains. Even though these products exist, they do a minimal job of helping with basic clogs. If the clog is deep within the piping system, or the lines are old, a DIY clog product that can be purchased through a retail provider may not suffice. Clogs occurring in the tub or sink will need to be rectified by a professional servicer.

Fixture Repairs

The term fixture repair refers to replacing a faulty fixture, such as a toilet, faucet, or showerhead. The complexity of the home can determine if these fixtures can be replaced by the homeowner, or if a professional company should complete the task. If you are unaware of how to replace these fixtures, it is in your best interest to call someone to assist. When in doubt always refer out.

Qualities Of A Good Emergency Plumber

February 5, 2017DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, How To, Plumbing Advicematt

Most people can fix minor plumbing issues that arise in their homes without calling a professional, but there will always come a time when a professional’s expertise is needed. Every household should keep a list of emergency numbers handy, whenever something occurs in their dwelling that they cannot fix. When hiring a plumber, it is imperative to do your research.

The plumber that you employ should possess certain characteristics that set them apart from their competitors. Often, people pay too much attention to price, instead of considering the other qualities that a professional should possess. The DC emergency plumber that you choose to hire should possess the following characteristics: professionalism, experience, reliability, and proper credentials.

Professionalism

Professionalism should always be displayed by the plumber that you employ. The individual or company that is dispatched to your residence should be able to answer any questions that you have regarding the service. An educated plumber will be able to explain the problem to you, answer questions you may have concerning the issue, and provide tips that can help you avoid the problem in the future.

Experience

Proper skills and experience will ensure that your job is performed correctly, the first time. Plumbing is a hands-on job, where most the job is taught through doing the task. The more experience the professional has, the better it is for your job. The job can be completed quickly and accurately, helping you eliminate the chances of the same issue occurring again. The emergency plumber you employ should be able to rectify any plumbing related issue, because they have fixed issues just like yours in the past.

Reliability

When you call or schedule to have a plumber dispatched to your residence, you want to ensure that they will come. A reputable company will put their customers first. They will show up at their assigned time, and complete the task at hand without any qualms. Reliable plumbers can be dispatched to your residence whenever an issue arises, be it day or night.

Proper Credentials

It is possible to find a handyman to fix your plumbing related issues. However, if you want the job done right the first time, a reputable plumbing service should be who you should call. Plumbing companies will hire the best of the best to perform your job. Typically, these individuals will possess certain credentials to be able to perform the plumbing task they are assigned to.

There are a few classifications of plumbers. There are apprentice plumbers, journeymen plumbers, and master plumbers. Apprentice plumbers are individuals who are still learning the craft. These people will practice underneath a master plumber, until they have received the proper credentials needed to practice on their own.

Journeymen plumbers are right above the apprentice position. These individuals will have experience in the field, but not enough experience to be considered a master. Master plumbers are the best of the best. These individuals have earned this title through schooling and on the job experience. A master plumber is a highly skilled individual that has usually dedicated their lives to the profession.

The Importance Of Plumbing And Sewer Services

January 16, 2017Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Plumbing Advice, Sewer Issuesmatt

Plumbing and sewer services are essential to the health and safety and the health and safety of your family. And if you own a business, you have to consider the safety of your customers and employees as well. Plumbing and sewer services ensure the water in your home or business is safe for use. Plumbing and sewer services also efficiently carry waste and wastewater away from your home or business. If improperly handled sanitary water and sewer gases can pose serious health risks.

Examples Of Sewer Services

A professional plumber can provide a variety of sewer services including sewer and drain cleaning for both your home and your business. They can also use specialized cameras to spot breaks or clogs in your residential or commercial sewer lines that are invisible to the naked eye. Professional plumbers can remove blockages in sewer lines whether the lines are made of cast iron or ceramic materials. Professional plumbers can replace or repair sewer mains if necessary as well.

Hiring A Master Plumber Instead Of Doing It Yourself (DIY)

Hiring a professional master plumber to provide sewer services and repairs will ensure that the job is done accurately and efficiently the first time around. This will save you money in the long term because you won’t have to hire a professional to fix mistakes that you could possibly make while attempting to do the work yourself.

Finding Sewer Services In Your Area

The easiest way to find professional sewer services in your area is by word of mouth. You can ask friends, neighbors, family members or coworkers for a trusted recommendation in your area. If you’re looking for sewer services in DC for example, asking someone who you know and trust will ensure that you have a positive experience. You can also use the internet to search for a professional plumber that provides these services. However, this method will require more research on your part because you have to verify that the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and offers the services that you need, at an affordable price. You should also make sure that the company you choose puts everything in writing and provides exceptional customer services. The company should be willing to accommodate your schedule and they shouldn’t hesitate to show their license upon request. And if the company provides free estimates, that’s great too.

Preventative Plumbing Maintenance

Having a professional plumber inspect the plumbing system of your home or business on a regular basis can prevent the need for costly repairs in the future. Some examples of preventative plumbing maintenance tasks include repairing small leaks, and performing routine water heater repair and maintenance. Routine preventative plumbing maintenance can help your home or business conserve water as well. And conserving water will help save money on your utility bills. Your home or business will not only be greener but you’ll be saving some green too. These are just a few of the reasons why the importance of plumbing and sewer services cannot and should not be overlooked.

Décor Trends For 2017

January 14, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, Commercial Plumbing, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

If you want to give your home or office a fresh new look for the New Year, there are quite a few popular options to consider. Here are some of the most anticipated interior design trends for 2017.

Green Is The New Black

Green will be the most popular interior design color choice in the New Year. And you don’t have to limit yourself to any specific shade either. Whether it’s emerald, mint or chartreuse, green is definitely the new black this year. So, don’t be surprised if you see the color pop up in any shade in accessories, knick knacks or upholstered furniture.

Texture

Texture is yet another highly anticipated interior design trend for 2017. While in the past homeowners have chosen to favor bright colors, they are now beginning to choose simpler color palettes with textured elements. Elements of texture are now being spotted not just in fabrics, but also in art, wall treatments, and lighting as well.

Organic Patterns And Prints

When it comes to fabrics and prints for your home, interior designers are predicting a rise in the popularity of organic patterns and prints. Interior designers are also predicting that worn or vintage prints will once again gain popularity too.

Ceramics

You’ll probably see more homes decorated with ceramic objects in 2017. The presence of ceramic objects will give your home an earthy artistic feel that’s becoming very popular at the moment. Whether you’re talking vases, lamps, or light fixtures, you’re sure to see a lot of ceramics in the near future.

Layers And Colors

You’ve probably heard the term less is more. Well, in 2017, it seems that the opposite will hold true. Instead of a minimalist approach as in years past, homeowners and interior designers alike will start to favor layers of prints and colors throughout their homes.

Living Finishes

Instead of filling your home or office space with brass and chrome, it seems that unpolished brass and unfinished metals will become more popular this year. Designers and decorators are now favoring living rather than shiny finishes.

Raw Wood Textures

Raw wood textures are gaining more popularity over the polished, finished looks of the past few years. You’ll see more raw wood popping up in furniture, accessories and cabinetry this year.

Kitchen And Bathroom Renovation And Remodeling

And if you’re thinking of giving your home or office space a face-lift in the New Year, it’s important not to overlook your kitchen or bathroom. Hiring a professional plumber to assist you with your improvement project will help keep the renovation or remodel both or schedule and on budget. A professional plumber will even be able to help you decide which of these interior design trends are right for your space. They can also help make your new kitchen and bathroom more energy-efficient by installing low-flow toilets, faucets and well as state of the art appliances.

Plumbing Services For Your Business

Contacting a professional that provides DC commercial plumbing services is a good idea, as they will be able to assist with the remodel, keep all your plumbing and HVAC up to code, and are familiar with zoning regulations.

Whether you’re redesigning your home or office interior, or renovating or remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, there are many new and exciting trends to consider this year.

Ideas For Upgrading Your Bathroom In The New Year

January 13, 2017Bathroom Remodeling, DC Plumber, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

If you’re looking for some ideas to upgrade your bathroom for the New Year, it’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber to help and advise you. But before you pick up the phone or start researching on the internet searching for a professional DC plumber, here are a few ideas that can make your ordinary bathroom feel more luxurious in 2017.

Glass Shower Enclosure

When you think about renovating or remodeling your bathroom, you may want to start with your shower. To make your bathroom feel more open, choose to install a glass shower enclosure instead of a plain old shower rod and curtain.

Steam Showers

Another way to upgrade your shower and make it feel a little fancier is to add a vent in the ceiling of your glass shower enclosure. This creates the same effect as a steam shower, but it’s less expensive than a traditional steam generator. These vents can also open or close, just in case you don’t want every shower to be a steam shower.

Shower Benches

Shower benches are a great option if you have problems with mobility. They can be installed directly into an existing shower and can be customized with tile in order to match the rest of the space. These benches are specifically designed to be waterproof and can also include built- in shelves for toiletries like shampoo, body wash, razors and soap.

Handheld Shower Heads

Handheld shower heads are yet another option if you struggle with mobility. They are an easy way to make your shower experience easier and more relaxing. If you enjoy a full-coverage shower experience, rain showers are perfect for that. They also give the illusion of standing in the rain.

Heated Floors

There’s nothing more uncomfortable than stepping out of a hot shower onto a cold floor. So consider heated floors when you’re discussing the renovation or remodel of your bathroom with a professional plumber. They can be quite expensive, but your bare feet will thank you.

Vanity Storage

You’ll need plenty of storage in your newly renovated or remodeled bathroom to store all your belongings and avoid clutter. A large mirror is also a great investment. Consider carefully where you install lights, as certain places may cast less than flattering shadows on your face.

Reasons To Hire A Professional Plumber For Your Bathroom Renovation Or Remodel

A professional plumber can discuss these bathroom upgrade ideas with you and help you decide which ideas are right for you and your family. A professional plumber can also help keep your renovation or remodeling project both on schedule and on budget. Making the most of an existing space can be difficult when you’re overwhelmed with options. A professional plumber can help you with this too. Choosing the right lighting, tubs, sinks, and plumbing fixtures is yet another decision that a professional plumber can assist you with. They can also install low-flow faucets and toilets so that your new dream is as environmentally friendly as possible. So keep these tips in mind if you’re considering a bathroom upgrade in 2017.